If you’re struggling with the cost of living, there is support available for families.
Free School Meals
Check if your child is entitled to Free School Meals.
If you receive certain benefits, such as Universal Credit, then your child may be entitled to a free lunch at school which could save hundreds of pounds a year. This could also mean your child is entitled to free holiday clubs during the school holidays, and means your school is able to access extra funding.
The Uniform Store
Getting all the uniform your child needs can be expensive, the Uniform Store offers good quality school uniform, free of charge to those who need it. The shop is on New George Street in the city centre and is open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 1pm.
Short Breaks Innovation Fund
There is additional funding available to help remove barriers that young people in Plymouth face when trying to access education. Applications can be made for items or services that young people need to work or study, such as bus passes, uniforms, books or course fees.
To be eligible, young people must be aged 14 to 25-years-old and meet one of the following criteria:
- Special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) or have an Education, Health and Care Plan
- Care experienced
- At risk of involvement in, or in contact with, the criminal justice system
- Is a young carer
- Is a young parent (under 25 years old).
Applications must be made by a professional, so if you think your child could benefit, please ask their teacher, social worker or other professional advocate to email heather.adie@plymouth.gov.uk for more information.
Other cost of living support
You can find a huge range of cost-of-living support on our online hub, including help with food, energy and housing costs as well as financial advice and mental health support.
Our road safety team has shared lots of tips and advice to help your child travel to school safely.